Guatemala’s Volcano of Fire Erupts Again: Hundreds Evacuated, Schools Closed, and Communities on Edge

A Sudden Eruption: What Happened on June 6, 2025?

Did you hear the news? On June 6, 2025, Guatemala’s infamous Volcano of Fire—known locally as Volcán de Fuego—erupted with dramatic force. Early in the morning, residents living near the volcano saw fiery lava flowing down its slopes and thick plumes of ash rising into the sky. The eruption was so intense that Guatemala’s disaster agency, CONRED, immediately issued warnings and began evacuating people from the most vulnerable areas. This volcano, standing 3,763 meters tall, is just 35 kilometers from the capital and is one of Central America’s most active and dangerous volcanoes. The eruption sent hot gases, volcanic debris, and ash clouds up to 7 kilometers from the crater, putting thousands at risk.

Mass Evacuations: How Did Communities Respond?

Imagine waking up to the sound of rumbling earth and seeing ash falling like snow outside your window. That’s exactly what happened to hundreds of families living in the Chimaltenango, Escuintla, and Sacatepequez regions. Over 700 people were evacuated from five different communities, with many more on standby as the situation developed. Authorities set up shelters and urged residents to bring enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. Some, like 28-year-old Wilver Guerra from El Porvenir, shared their relief at leaving in time, saying it’s better to evacuate early than to regret it later. The government also closed a major highway and suspended classes at 39 schools to keep everyone safe.

The Science Behind the Eruption: Why Is Fuego So Active?

Have you ever wondered why the Volcano of Fire erupts so often? Fuego is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region famous for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Scientists from Guatemala’s Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) have been monitoring Fuego 24/7. During this eruption, ash clouds reached heights of up to 7,000 meters, posing a risk to air travel and making breathing difficult for people nearby. Experts say the current activity could last up to 40 hours, and the volcano’s history suggests that sudden, powerful eruptions are not uncommon. In fact, in March 2025, Fuego erupted as well, leading to another round of evacuations.

Impact on Daily Life: Schools Closed and Roads Blocked

How would you feel if your daily routine was suddenly turned upside down? For thousands of Guatemalans, the eruption meant canceled classes, closed roads, and uncertainty about when life would return to normal. The government suspended activities at 39 educational institutions and shut down a key road connecting the south of the country to the historic city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ashfall disrupted businesses and made outdoor activities dangerous. Social media was flooded with photos and videos of glowing lava at night and ash-covered streets in the morning. For many, the eruption brought back memories of previous disasters and the constant threat posed by living near an active volcano.

A Look Back: Fuego’s Deadly History

Did you know that Fuego’s eruptions have been deadly in the past? In 2018, a catastrophic eruption killed at least 215 people and left more than 200 missing as rivers of lava destroyed entire villages. Since then, Guatemalan authorities have improved monitoring and emergency response, but the fear remains. Every time Fuego rumbles, communities brace themselves for the worst. The 2025 eruption is a stark reminder of the volcano’s power and the risks faced by those living nearby. Local media and international news outlets have highlighted the resilience of Guatemalans, who, despite the dangers, continue to rebuild and support each other after every eruption.

International Attention and Support: How the World Is Reacting

The latest eruption has caught the attention of the global community. News agencies from around the world have reported on the evacuations, the government’s response, and the ongoing risks. Organizations like the CopernicusLAC Panama Centre are using satellite data to monitor the volcano and provide real-time information to authorities and researchers. Online platforms are sharing resources and training materials to help local officials prepare for future disasters. International aid groups are also on standby, ready to assist if the situation worsens. The world is watching, and many are sending messages of solidarity to the people of Guatemala.

Living with Volcanoes: The Resilience of Guatemalan Communities

What’s it like to live in the shadow of an active volcano? For many Guatemalans, it’s a daily reality. Despite the risks, communities near Fuego have developed strong support networks and emergency plans. Local leaders work closely with disaster agencies to ensure that everyone knows what to do when the volcano erupts. Families keep emergency kits ready, and schools regularly practice evacuation drills. There’s a sense of solidarity and determination to protect each other, even in the face of nature’s fury. As one resident put it, it’s better to leave early than to mourn later.

What’s Next? Ongoing Risks and Recovery Efforts

As of June 6, 2025, the eruption is still ongoing, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The number of evacuees could rise if volcanic activity continues or intensifies. Recovery efforts are already underway, with shelters providing food, water, and medical care to those displaced. The government is assessing damage to infrastructure and preparing for possible long-term impacts. Experts warn that ashfall could affect crops and water supplies, adding to the challenges faced by local communities. For now, the focus is on keeping everyone safe and supporting those who have lost their homes or livelihoods.

Final Thoughts: A Community Tested, but Not Broken

Have you ever experienced a natural disaster? The people of Guatemala know all too well the fear and uncertainty that comes with living near an active volcano. Yet, their resilience and sense of community shine through every time Fuego erupts. As the world watches and waits for the volcano to calm, Guatemalans are once again showing their strength, supporting each other, and hoping for a safe return home. The story of Fuego is a powerful reminder of the challenges—and the courage—of those who live in the shadow of nature’s most unpredictable forces.